HALF a million pounds is up for grabs for cash-strapped community groups in Hillingdon who will be able to apply for new grants this week.

The Grassroots Grants scheme is part of a £130 million national drive to support thousands of groups and projects, working to improve communities.

Charities, voluntary groups, and neighbourhood initiatives with an annual turnover of less than £20,000 a year can apply for ther grants, which can be anything from £250 to £5,000.

Just over £291,000 in small grants is available in Hillingdon through the North West London Community Foundation over the next three years.

Anybody wishing to put on a community event or social activity, run education classes, or help with the costs of sports, IT equipment or venue hire is encouraged to apply.

The grant is not available to fund religious or political groups, although religious groups running community activities such as youth groups can apply.

Patrick Vernon, chief executive of North West London Community Foundation, said: "This is great news for local groups in Hillingdon, who are so often working on a shoestring. We are commmitted to make it as easy as possible to apply and making decisions quickly so groups can put the mney to good use straight away."

In addition to this, a new scheme has been launched through the Thames Community Foundation where for every £2 pledged through them to community groups, the Government will top it up with £1 up to a maximum of £246,000.

The first deadline for applications is December 4th and groups should visit www.nwlcommunityfoundation.org.uk to fill in an application form or call 0208 424 1167.